Schoolchildren in Ontario will study less
Schools in the region intend to try a shortened week.
Canadian employers have already begun to implement a four-day workweek for employees. This schedule is based on the idea of working more efficiently, not longer. In some sectors of the economy, it has already shown itself to be positive — employees in certain areas actually work better if they take longer rest periods. However, scientists point out that such a schedule does not in all cases increase employee productivity.
Now they want to test this idea in school education. The Office of French-speaking Catholic Schools in Ontario has undertaken the experiment. Two schools in the region — in Orleans and in Kanata — will take part in the study during the 2023-2024 school year.
Students' participation in the program will be voluntary and parents will be able to choose whether to try out the experimental schedule or stick to the traditional one. The good news is that busy parents of young energizers will not have to suffer an extra day a week — the offspring can still be left on a five-day schedule.
It is noteworthy that the children on the four-day program will not study less. Classes will start earlier, on August 22, and end later, on June 25. In addition, the school day will last 38 minutes longer, which means that the children in the shortened week will have one more lesson per day. In this way, school administrators hope to free up time that children can spend with their families.
This news has elicited mixed reactions from parents. Some think the idea is great, while others worry that children will be in unequal conditions: children who choose a shortened week will have small classes, while supporters of the traditional schedule will have large classes. Both teachers and children find it easier and more effective to work in small groups where everyone can get attention.
Canadian Education Minister Steven Lecce does not support the project. He believes that schools should stick to a five-day schedule, emphasizing mastery of math, writing and reading, and focusing on students' mental health.
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